How to Make a Kitten Cage

Newborn kittens still need constant care and warmth, even when they're weaned from their mother. Sometimes you don't have access to an expensive cat carrier to keep your kitten safe. You can make a temporary bed or cage yourself with things you may have around your house until you litter box and house train the kitten.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cardboard box
• Scissors or craft knife
• Plastic sheet
• Towel or old t-shirt

1. Find a box that can serve as your temporary kitten cage. Make sure it's large enough and sturdy enough to hold the kitten comfortably.
2. Cut five to seven small holes in the box on the top and sides to keep air flowing. Holes should be about 1 inch in diameter, not large enough for the kitten to crawl out.
3. Line plastic at the bottom of the box to keep any urine from seeping through the box onto your floor or furniture. Tape the plastic to the sides of the box--securely enough that the kitten won't be able to tear it down or eat it--to keep it in place. Make sure the plastic doesn't cover the ventilation holes.
4. Put a small towel or old t-shirt on top of the plastic to give the kitten something warm and soft to lay on when in the box. Pick a towel or t-shirt you wouldn't mind throwing away.
5. Place the kitten in the box and close the lid to give the kitten a dark place to sleep. Check on the kitten often and change the bedding daily or as needed. Take the kitten out to play and litter box train; this kitten cage is more of a carrier and bed, not a home.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a car carrier or bed at your local pet store for long term use. This cardboard box kitten cage is a great temporary fix, but you shouldn't use it for an extended period of time.